Xaghra Parish » Gallery » 2009 » LENT 2009 » 13 MAR 09 - PILGRIMAGE WITH CHRIST UNDER THE CROSS
Friday the 13th made amends for the previous Friday when the first Parish Pilgrimage from the Church of Saint Anthony The Abbot was cancelled because of bad weather. This time, in calm weather the pilgrimage from the Church of In-Nazzarenu took place with the statue of Christ Fallen under the Cross, the Redentur (The Redeemer). Starting at 6 pm, Mass in the Church was celebrated by Archpriest Mgr Carmelo Refalo with Archpriest Emeritus of Xaghra Mgr Eucharistic Sultana, Church Rector Can Anthony Refalo Rapa and Fr Saviour Sultana co celebrating. Singing was animated by the Church's guitar group. Meantime the statue was out on the parvis in front of the Church. After Mass, the pilgrimage started moving on its way to the Basilica, the Piccolo Clero leading. Behind the statue walked hooded persons to observe anonimity carrying crosses in fulfilment of vows. This was a first for this annual pilgrimage. Along the way, fourteen crosses hung to house facades. The owners of the houses recited the stations of the Way of The Cross when the Statue arrived in front of their homes. This too was introduced this year. This pilgrimage takes place in great devotion and many parishioners took part. On the way, the Rosary is recited and the stations of the Way of the Cross meditated. For this purpose a car with a public address system moved in front of the faithful so that all could follow. On arrival at the Basilica, the Holy Eucharist was exposed, moments of meditation and reflection followed and finally benediction with the Blessed Sacrament was imparted by Archpriest Mgr Carmelo Refalo. Photos courtesy Carmel Agius.
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